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Protect Your Pet From Heatstroke & Hyperthermia During Moderate to Warm Weather

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, hundreds of pets die each year as a result of being left in parked cars. This often occurs when pet owners make a stop with the intent of only being gone a few minutes. But the fact is, getting sidetracked or delayed can happen to anyone.

Studies have found that within only 10 minutes, car interiors can heat up by nearly 20° Fahrenheit. The more time that lapses, the hotter a car gets. At 60 minutes, the car cabin temperature can increase by 45 degrees. 

Exercising in hot or sunny weather poses an increased risk 

Dogs are also particularly prone to heat exhaustion or heatstroke when they're overexercised, especially during hot weather or even on mild, sunny days. As mentioned above, certain breeds are particularly prone. Always monitor your dog's behavior. If it begins to pant or drool or wants to stop, don't push it. Give your dog the rest and shade it needs. 

Signs of hyperthermia or heatstroke in dogs and cats

The signs of heatstroke or hyperthermia are similar in both dogs and cats. A pet doesn't have to experience all the symptoms to be in danger. One or more symptoms can be a sign your pet is in distress. The result, if not caught and treated quickly, could be coma or death. 

·       panting

·       excessive drooling

·       difficulty breathing

·       increased heart rate

·       vomiting 

·       heartbeat or breathing stops 

·       muscle tremors

·       seizures

·       shock

What to do if your pet overheats

If your pet is experiencing heat exhaustion or shows signs of heatstroke, you need to get your pet out of the heat and sun immediately. Move your pet into some shade or preferably air conditioning. 

Also, for a dog, you can use a hose or put the dog in a tub of tepid, but not cold water. You can also wet a towel and rub your cat or dog down, particularly concentrating on the head, neck, and underside of the legs.

What to do if you see a pet left in a hot car

Good Samaritans can take action to protect or save the life of an animal left in a hot vehicle. If you see a pet left in a parked car in temperatures that could quickly escalate inside the cabin, or if an animal shows signs of distress, call 911.

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